The spring runoff of 2016 resulted in reservoir levels higher than normal on many lakes in the Gull and Southeast reservoir drainage basins. In most cases, ice was still on the lakes at the time water levels were at their maximum. This was the result of March rainfall which was more than double the monthly average with much of it falling in the last week of the month.
The CEWF is of the opinion that TSW, MNRF and the municipalities managed the runoff and potential flooding well. We are also of the opinion that it would be a valuable reference for TSW to have information on the extent of any damage which may have occurred either as a result of high water levels or ice or both. If there was no damage, this is also valuable information when compared with the maximum levels attained.
For a table showing the maximum water level reached in 2016 on each lake – click here.
For reference, we have also indicated the maximum spring historic (often 2013) and the average maximum, both based on a 25-year historic record and taken from the TSW website graphs. (http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/on/trentsevern/visit/ne-wl/trent_e.asp) Where available, the Upper Preferred Water Level provided by the Lake Association, is also included in the Table.
We would ask the Lake Associations as part of regular communications canvas their members for damage information (ice or water, what was damaged and if possible, extent of damage – photos explaining the damage would be valuable). This could even be a question raised at your AGM's. We will collate this information and make sure TSW is aware of it. As noted, if there was no damage on the lake, this is important information as well. Information can be sent to the CEWF at cewfchair@yahoo.ca.